Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed bread rolls are a delicious, versatile, and satisfying dish that combines the comfort of soft, fluffy bread with flavorful fillings. These rolls are perfect for any meal, whether as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. The soft, pillowy texture of the bread paired with a variety of savory fillings—such as cheese, meats, or vegetables—makes each bite an irresistible experience. Whether you prefer classic cheese-filled rolls or want to try something more creative, this recipe is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Stuffed Bread Rolls Recipe

Ingredients

1 package (about 2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (110°F)
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage (optional)
1/4 cup chopped spinach or herbs (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)
2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for flavoring)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare your fillings. You can mix mozzarella cheese, cooked sausage, and chopped spinach or herbs. Feel free to customize your filling based on your preferences.
Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8-10 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a disc.
Stuff the Rolls: Place a spoonful of the prepared filling in the center of each disc, then fold the edges of the dough around the filling to seal it. Pinch the edges tightly to ensure the filling doesn’t leak out while baking.
Second Rise: Place the stuffed rolls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash (a beaten egg) and sprinkle with garlic powder for extra flavor.
Bake the Rolls: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the bread rolls are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter for a glossy finish.
Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, with a dipping sauce of your choice if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 8-10 stuffed bread rolls, serving 4-6 people.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Rise time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including second rise)
Cook time: 18 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Cheese and Pepperoni Stuffed Rolls: For a pizza-inspired version, stuff the rolls with mozzarella cheese and slices of pepperoni. Add a little marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Rolls: Use spinach and feta cheese as the filling for a Mediterranean twist.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Rolls: Fill the rolls with cooked chicken, BBQ sauce, and shredded cheese for a savory, tangy flavor.
Vegetarian Stuffed Rolls: Use a mixture of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a hearty vegetarian filling.
Sweet Stuffed Rolls: Try filling the rolls with a mixture of sweetened cream cheese, cinnamon, and chopped apples for a dessert variation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover stuffed bread rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave them for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made pizza dough for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough as a shortcut. Just roll it out and follow the same process for stuffing and baking the rolls.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping the rolls.

Can I freeze stuffed bread rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed rolls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I prevent the filling from spilling out of the rolls?

Be sure to seal the edges of the dough tightly around the filling to prevent any leaks. If necessary, pinch the dough edges together firmly to ensure they stay sealed during baking.

Can I use different fillings?

Absolutely! The filling possibilities are endless. You can use any combination of meats, cheeses, vegetables, or even sweet fillings like chocolate or fruit preserves for dessert rolls.

Can I make these rolls without yeast?

If you prefer a quicker version, you can use a no-yeast dough recipe. While the texture will be slightly different, the rolls will still be delicious.

How do I know when the rolls are done?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and cooked through in the center. You can also tap the bottom of a roll—if it sounds hollow, it’s ready.

Can I make these rolls smaller?

Yes, you can make the rolls smaller by dividing the dough into more portions. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they cook through.

How long should I let the rolls rise?

The rolls should rise for about 1 hour during the first rise, and another 30 minutes during the second rise. This allows the dough to develop its texture and helps the rolls become soft and fluffy.

Can I make stuffed bread rolls ahead of time?

You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Let them come to room temperature before baking, or bake them directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Stuffed bread rolls are a perfect blend of soft, fluffy bread and savory fillings that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, party, or as a snack, these rolls are sure to be a hit. The dough is easy to make, and you can customize the fillings to suit your preferences, making them as simple or as gourmet as you like. Warm, cheesy, and satisfying, stuffed bread rolls are a great addition to any meal. Enjoy them fresh from the oven with a dipping sauce, and savor every delicious bite!